Michael Frederick will become the fourth Fremantle player to make their AFL debut in 2020 when he runs out in the RAC Derby at Optus Stadium on Sunday.
Frederick and defender Brennan Cox are Freo’s two inclusions for the clash, replacing injured duo Nat Fyfe (hamstring) and Hayden Young (ankle).
Cox is set to slot in as a key defender, with the 195cm player now recovered from his hip flexor injury.
He last played for Fremantle in round three against Port Adelaide where he had 15 disposals and five marks.
Taken at pick no.61 in the 2019 NAB AFL National Draft, Frederick impressed in Fremantle’s scratch matches for non-selected players, including a three-goal performance against Gold Coast last week.
He caught the eye of Fremantle recruiters with his speed, goal sense and willingness to take the game on, with the 20-year-old player continuing to develop after his arrival at the club in November.
Lloyd Meek, Brandon Matera, Tobe Watson and Connor Blakely have been nameed as Freo’s emergencies.
Bounce down for the clash is at 4.35 pm and will be broadcast live into WA on Channel 7 and Fox Footy.
It can also be streamed on Kayo and AFL Live Pass.
The game will be the club’s first home game at Optus Stadium in 2020 and will function differently than a traditional Fremantle game day due to the cap on attendance and Covid-19 protocols.
The club will communicate all necessary information with members and publish match day information on fremantlefc.com.au on Friday.
READ MORE: Frederick fired up for RAC Derby debut
TEAM v WEST COAST
Backs: James Aish, Brennan Cox, Ethan Hughes
Half backs: Stephen Hill, Luke Ryan, Nathan Wilson
Centre: Adam Cerra, Darcy Tucker, Blake Acres
Half forwards: Lachie Schultz, Rory Lobb, Brett Bewley
Forwards: Travis Colyer, Matt Taberner, Michael Walters
Ruck/followers: Sean Darcy, David Mundy, Andrew Brayshaw
Interchange: Bailey Banfield, Caleb Serong, Michael Frederick, Taylin Duman
Emergencies: Lloyd Meek, Brandon Matera, Connor Blakely, Tobe Watson
